Assistant Yard Manager

Lawsons is proud to be the UK’s largest independent supplier of fencing, timber and building materials. Established in 1921, with over 35 branches and 700+ colleagues across London and the South East, we continue to thrive by building lasting relationships with customers and cultivating a strong, supportive team culture. We are now recruiting an Assistant Yard Manager to join our Acton branch to support operational excellence and deliver outstanding service across the yard, depot and local customer base.

Role Overview

This is a full-time, permanent role supporting the Yard Manager in the day-to-day running of the Acton yard. The Assistant Yard Manager will help ensure efficient, safe and customer-focused yard operations, contribute to stock control and presentation standards, assist with local sales activity and support the development of the yard team. The ideal candidate will be practical, hands-on, commercially aware and experienced in a similar builders’ merchants, trade supply or logistics environment.

Main Responsibilities

• Assist the Yard Manager with all aspects of yard operations to maintain safety, service and productivity.

• Supervise, coach and develop yard colleagues to create an inclusive, customer-focused team culture.

• Deliver excellent customer service in the yard and at the trade counter, resolving queries and building strong relationships with trade and retail customers.

• Support sales activity by identifying opportunities for growth, promoting appropriate products and assisting with local marketing initiatives to drive revenue.

• Oversee day-to-day stock control, ordering and stock rotation; prepare for and support stock counts and ensure accurate record keeping.

• Ensure the yard is presented to company standards with safe storage of materials, clear signage and organised work areas.

• Support deliveries and collections, coordinating with drivers and customers to ensure timely, accurate service.

• Manage relevant administration, cash handling and customer account processes in line with company procedures.

• Promote and enforce health & safety policies, complete required risk assessments and ensure colleagues follow safe working practices, including correct manual handling and use of equipment.

• Cover operational duties as required, including deputising for the Yard Manager and providing hands-on support during busy periods or site visits.

• Contribute to continuous improvement by suggesting and implementing efficiencies in yard processes, stock management and customer service.

Person Specification

• Proven practical experience in a builders’ merchant, trade supplier, yard or logistics environment (essential).

• Experience supervising or leading a small team and developing colleagues.

• A Full UK Driving License is essential for this position as Forklifts are operated on public roads.

• Strong customer service and commercial awareness with the ability to identify and act on sales opportunities.

• Good organisational skills, able to manage competing priorities and support effective yard operations.

• Physically capable and comfortable with manual handling and outdoor yard duties in all weathers.

• Basic IT literacy to use yard/branch systems, EPOS and mobile devices for order processing and stock management.

• Knowledge of building materials, timber or fencing products is desirable.

• Commitment to health & safety, with the ability to maintain high standards and promote safe working practices.

• Flexible and reliable, willing to work occasional early starts and Saturdays as required to support yard needs.

• Professional, respectful and collaborative approach, able to build rapport with customers and colleagues.

Working Hours, Salary and Benefits

• Full-time, permanent position based at our Acton yard.

• Typical hours: Monday to Friday (standard weekly hours and shift pattern to be confirmed at interview), with 1 in 2 Saturday mornings working 08.00 - 12.00.

• Competitive salary, dependent on experience (£31,000 - £32,000).

• 25 days’ holiday per year plus bank holidays and a celebration day, with entitlement rising with service in line with company policy.

• Company pension scheme, Employee Assistance Programme and access to online GP services via the My Reward platform.

• Comprehensive induction, ongoing training and genuine progression opportunities within the business.

Why Join Lawsons Acton?

• Work for a long-established, customer-focused supplier with a strong local reputation and commitment to quality and service.

• Be part of a supportive, team-oriented environment where safety and customer service are prioritised.

• Develop your practical and management skills through structured training and opportunities to progress within the company.

• Play a key role in delivering outstanding service to trade and retail customers across the local area and contribute to the yard’s success.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates. If you are practical, customer-focused and committed to safe working, we would like to hear from you. #HP